London and South East Merit League
The London League (LL) was founded in 1965. Throughout most of its history the league ran throughout the traditional winter season, with a switch to a summer league in 2000 following the lead of the Super League which made the switch in 1997. The competition now works as a development league or merit league, who's purpose is now to nurture teams in the first years of operation along with various Armed Forces, Police, and Prison sides who for various reasons are unable to commit to a full fixture list.
The league has also proved popular with clubs in the Rugby League Conference (RLC) providing players or teams to the LL. Some of those RLC clubs have been those who originaly started in the LL. Since adopting it's current format the LL has provided nine teams to the RLC: Luton Vipers (2001); Greenwich Admirals, London Skolars II, South London Storm II, South Norfolk Saints and St Ives Roosters (2002); St Albans Centurions II (2003); and Haringey Hornets and Bedford Tigers (2004).
The merit system, which gives its unofficial name to the league as the London Merit League, came about as a way to accommodate the needs of as many of clubs as possible. The “merit table” system gives teams, freedom to arrange as many or few games amongst the other league participants as they wish. The results of fixtures worked out between the teams are compiled into a league table based on average scores. The top 6 teams then go through to a play-off system to determine the champion club. The LL participants also have the opportunity to arrange games with clubs participating in the Midlands Merit League.